The University of Lagos (UNILAG) management has barred Dr Boniface Igbeneghu of the Department of European Languages and Integrated Studies, from the campus following a sexual assault video that implicated him.
This is as it announced his suspension from academic activities.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) on Monday released a video documentary that beamed searchlight on sexual harassment in UNILAG and the University of Ghana.
An undercover journalist, Kiki Mordi posed as an admissions seeker in UNILAG and sought the help of Igbeneghu who promised to help her with tutorials.
In the process, the man who is also a pastor with the Foursquare Gospel Church in Lagos attempted engaging some sexually suggestive acts. The church had since suspend him.
In the video, the lecturer mentioned a “cold room” within the UNILAG Senior Staff Club where lecturers tossed around female students and sexually use them.
Following its management meeting on Monday, 7th October, the university said said that it had shut down the said “cold room”.
Spokesperson of the university, Taiwo Oloyede said that the lecturer was barred him from the university academic areas while the suspension subsists unless invited by a panel constituted by the University to investigate the matter.
“The so-called “Cold Room” is a Functions Room that may have been abused because this is a deviation from the purpose for which it was created i.e. meetings, seminars, events,” Mrs Oloyede said.
“The University assured members of the public that any other lecturer mentioned in the full version of the operation which is to be aired later today, will also be suspended to ensure a proper investigation is carried out.”
“The University Counselling Centre, Medical Centre and Division of Students’ Affairs amongst other organs have been well positioned to address complaints by students.
“These organs have cut off the bureaucracy limiting the effectiveness of the Policy, by the direct reporting system of these Centres to the Vice-Chancellor. The University encourages students who have evidence to come forward. They are assured of their anonymity and safety.”
“As a reputable Institution and one of the foremost Universities in Nigeria and sub-Sahara Africa, we are highly embarrassed by these allegations and we will do all that is necessary to ensure that this menace is checked in our institution.
“The University of Lagos is committed to providing conducive and safe learning environment where future leaders are trained to take responsibilities for their action.”
